Retailers Off Licence for Sale

Spirit Retailer’s Off Licence Available – A Unique Opportunity for Wine Shops

In Ireland, the sale of alcohol for consumption off the premises is governed by a strict licensing regime. Businesses that wish to sell alcohol such as wine, beer, and spirits for takeaway purposes must hold the appropriate off-licence. While many specialty wine retailers are already in possession of a Wine Retailer’s Off Licence, this licence only permits the sale of wine and certain fermented beverages. It does not permit the sale of spirits such as whiskey, vodka, or gin. For that, a separate licence – the Spirit Retailer’s Off Licence – is required.

Hayes Solicitors LLP is currently acting on behalf of a client in the sale of a valuable Spirit Retailer’s Off Licence. This is a rare and strategic opportunity for wine retailers, off-licences, or specialty drinks businesses that wish to expand their offering into the highly demanded spirits market.

Wine Retailer’s Off Licences are commonly held by boutique wine shops and specialist alcohol retailers who may focus on curated wine selections, imported varietals, and bespoke beverage experiences. However, customer demand and competitive market conditions are increasingly encouraging these businesses to diversify. Being able to offer premium or craft spirits alongside wine is an obvious next step, and it requires the appropriate licensing. The acquisition of a Spirit Retailer’s Off Licence allows such businesses to do so legally and without restriction on spirit sales.

It is important to note that Spirit Retailer’s Off Licences are no longer being newly issued by the authorities. They must be obtained through the transfer of an existing licence. This makes the current opportunity especially valuable, as the number of available licences is finite and demand remains strong across the retail drinks sector.

The process for transferring a Spirit Retailer’s Off Licence involves legal application to the District Court, as well as compliance with the Revenue Commissioners’ requirements. It is essential to engage experienced legal representation to manage this process smoothly and ensure compliance with all regulatory standards. Our Licensing Solicitor Dublin is well positioned to assist in this regard, offering extensive experience in licensing law and acting on behalf of purchasers in licensing transactions.

In circumstances where the purchaser wishes to commence trading without delay, an ad interim transfer can be sought from the District Court. An ad interim transfer allows the prospective licensee to begin operating under the licence on a temporary basis while the formal transfer application is being processed and finalised. This process minimises business disruption and allows retailers to capitalise on the licence’s value without unnecessary delay.

The sale currently being handled by Hayes Solicitors LLP offers the purchaser not only the legal entitlement to retail spirits off the premises, but also the commercial advantage of entering a broader alcohol market. For businesses currently restricted to selling wine only, this acquisition could transform product offerings and unlock significant revenue growth.

Whether you are a wine shop owner looking to evolve your business, a new market entrant in the retail drinks space, or an investor seeking a rare asset in the regulated alcohol industry, this opportunity deserves close consideration.

For more information on the Spirit Retailer’s Off Licence currently available for sale, or to discuss the steps involved in acquiring and transferring a licence in Ireland, we invite you to contact Liam Dempsey, solicitor at Hayes Solicitors LLP.

Do not miss the opportunity to secure a Spirit Retailer’s Off Licence. Contact Liam Dempsey at Hayes Solicitors LLP today to learn more.